user
Write a response that appropriately completes the request.

### Instruction:
Define the term "algorithm" in terms of computer science.

### Response:
assistant
An algorithm is a set of instructions for a computer to carry out a task, usually with the goal of arriving at a specific result. It is a step-by-step process that operates on a set of data, manipulating it and providing an expected outcome. Algorithms are used in artificial intelligence and machine learning, when computers learn how to solve complex problems and complete tasks.